How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It happens more often than people think however it is a huge hassle.

Fortunately replacing car keys lost is relatively easy depending on the kind of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys made at the local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, especially when it occurs during a busy period of the day when you're required to be somewhere. It's not the most frustrating thing that can happen. There are a variety of ways to find your car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. This means going back through the places you've visited and taking a look around, both at home and work. This will give you an idea of the last location you remember seeing your keys lost for car and could help you find where they might be.

If you still can't locate your car keys, you can call a locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to create an entirely new key for you and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle, so that only the new key can start it. They'll also erase the old key to ensure that if anyone manages to steal it, they can't drive your car.

Before you contact a locksmith or dealer ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. The VIN is on the driver's door or dashboard. It will allow them to know what car you own so they can create a key that matches.

Using Your Memory

You may be tempted be scared of losing your car keys however, try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and make use of your memory to recall where you were last able to see your car keys. If you're having trouble remembering where they were, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that could have surfaced.

If you're unable to solve the problem, contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll have to give them information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll then be able create an original key that matches the security chip you have already installed. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent future key losses.

Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).

In the past the idea of losing or car keys lost misplacing your car keys wasn't a huge issue. You could call your local locksmith and make a new key. However, as cars have become more advanced, so too have their keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. That's why it's important to always keep a spare key on hand or at the very least know how much your car dealership will charge you to replace it if you lose one.

The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the key you lost key for car what to do is indeed missing. Examine the pockets of your jacket or pants as well as the back of your car, and other places you may not normally look for, like the inside of your purse or shoe. Also, you should look through the owner's manual to find out if there are specific instructions for the type of key you have like how to reset it if it dies.

If you've tried everything but still cannot find your car keys, it is time to call a professional for a new one. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to more than $200 depending on the type you have. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith can usually cut a new one and modify it to fit your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's price, which could be as high as $320 to replace a lost the car key key.

If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to contact your dealer and have the car towed in for them to order an additional key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they will have to pair the new key to your vehicle's computer which could be a costly and time-consuming procedure. It's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to ensure that you receive assistance from a professional if needed!

Make sure your vehicle's security system is working

It's no secret that many modern vehicles come with advanced security features that safeguard the contents of the car from thieves. These features can make it difficult to replace car keys. However, it's not impossible to find a new key for these vehicles although the process is more complicated and costly than in the past. The cost of a new key will depend on the kind of vehicle you have. It is essential to be aware of this prior ordering one.

The easiest type of car key you can make a spare for is the classic double-edged key which can be re-used at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. It is usually less than $10 and will be a perfect backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are utilized in the latest models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. These chips need to be programmed using a special machine that is only available at certain dealerships.

When you need to make an additional spare for these advanced types of cars, a locksmith local to you is likely to be able. They will need to know the year and model of your car, as well as some other information to verify that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Some locksmiths are able to make keys in-person which will save you the hassle of going to an agent.

If you do not have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They will be the most knowledgeable about your specific car and the keys required to start it. It can be costly, and they will not be able to assist you on the road.

Try a Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your phone. The app will show you the location of your keys helping you to find the keys and preventing them from getting lost in the first instance!

Find a New Key

Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It can happen at the most awkward times, like at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult to find your keys again, but it is stressful if you do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a buddy.

There are, however, options for you to get an alternative key if you have lost car key no spare the original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you have and your vehicle.

For instance, if have a standard key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder it's fairly easy to have a locksmith create an immediate replacement. This is less than $200, and is typically quicker than purchasing one from the dealership.

If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, however you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealer will be able identify your details, and send you the correct key for a lower cost than what you would pay locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership, such as a registration or title or registration, a locksmith might be able to create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a cheaper option to visiting a dealership. However, it might not be possible when your car is older or expensive.

It is best to have a spare set keys. Place it in a safe location, such as your home, so you don't need to worry about losing it if you leave your car. It is also essential to check your purses and pockets regularly, especially if you wear an outerwear item with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you'd never reach, like the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Double-check your trunk if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget that you put them in there and they can easily get taken away if someone else drives off in your car.